It seems like every week either my or Colleen’s parents receive some type of scam email, text, or phone call.  Fortunately, they know to ask us to take a look if they have any questions or concerns before responding. But  we’ve all heard stories of seniors who fell prey to some type of scam. It’s especially concerning as even our  seniors become more reliant on the digital world for communication, shopping, banking and entertainment.  Unfortunately, scammers often prey specifically on the elderly who may be less tech-savvy and more trusting.  Below we talk about some of the risks of digital scams for seniors and what they and their loved ones can do to  protect against scams. 

What are online scams? 

Online scams refer to any fraudulent activities that are carried out through the internet, such as phishing,  identity theft, social security fraud, and lottery scams. Phishing is one of the most common scams out there  and refers to the fraudulent practice of sending emails or other messages purporting to be from reputable  companies or government agencies to induce individuals to reveal personal information, such as passwords and  credit card numbers. Scammers often use fake websites, texts, emails, and social media profiles to trick people  into giving away their personal information, money, or both. 

The risks of scams for seniors 

Seniors are particularly vulnerable to scams for several reasons. Firstly, many seniors may not be as familiar  with the internet as younger generations, making them more susceptible to scams that are easy to fall for.  Additionally, many seniors may be more trusting and less likely to suspect malicious intent, making them easier  targets. Lastly, many seniors may have retirement savings or assets that scammers seek to exploit, making  them a particularly attractive target. 

What can seniors do to protect themselves from scams? 

While online scams are a real threat to seniors, there are several things they can do to protect themselves.  Here are some tips: 

Be cautious of unsolicited calls and emails: scammers often use phone calls, emails and text messages  to target seniors. If you receive an unsolicited call or email, be cautious and don’t give away any personal  information unless you’re sure it’s from a legitimate source. 

Use strong passwords: create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts, and don’t reuse  passwords across multiple accounts.  

Don’t click on links or download attachments from unknown sources: scammers often use links or  attachments to spread malware or steal personal information.  

Use two-factor authentication: two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online  accounts. It requires you to enter a code sent to your phone or email in addition to your password to access  your account. 

Be wary of requests for money or personal information: if someone asks you for money or personal  information online, be cautious and don’t give out any information unless you’re sure it’s a legitimate  request. 

Consult with family members, friends, or trusted advisors before responding to suspicious requests for  information or making major financial decisions: if you’re unsure, seek out help from people you trust. 

By following these tips, seniors can enjoy the benefits of the digital age while staying safe and secure.  

We at Assisting Hands are also available to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone on our team for  other resources and ways to help keep you and your friends and family members safe.